4 Giant Trolls Just Landed in Iowa — Here’s Where to Find Them
Something big — and a little magical — has arrived in Iowa.
World-renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo has brought his larger-than-life troll sculptures to the state, creating a one-of-a-kind road trip experience.
These aren’t just sculptures… they’re massive wooden trolls, built from recycled materials, each with its own story and personality.
In 2026, four trolls (plus a bonus installation – which is technically not a troll) are calling Iowa home — one in western Iowa and four along the Mississippi River.
Here’s where you can find them.
NOTE: We are not providing detailed instructions/directions on their exact location, as the project is designed to encourage you to explore, wander, and discover. We’ll let you know the general location and where to park. Happy troll hunting!
🧌 Fjord Ferryman in Elk Horn, Iowa (Western Iowa)
Location: On the grounds of the Museum of Danish America
Where to park: 2212 Washington St, Elk Horn, IA 51531
The 22-foot wooden troll installed in April 2026 at the Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn, Iowa, is named Fjord Ferryman (or Fjord Færgemand in Danish). Created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, the sculpture is made from recycled materials and sits in a boat on the prairie, representing the journey of Danish immigrants.
The troll was created as part of a larger celebration of Danish culture and connects Iowa directly to Denmark through art and storytelling.
Like all of Dambo’s work, it was built using recycled materials and brought to life with the help of local volunteers — making it not just a sculpture, but a community project.
👉 Road trip tip: Pair this stop with the Danish Windmill and Museum of Danish America in Elk Horn for a full experience.
🧌 Helmut in Clinton, Iowa
Location: Near the Sawmill Museum
Where to park: near the intersection of Grant St and Main Ave in Clinton, Iowa
Clinton is home to four trolls, all tied to the Mississippi River and the city’s lumber history. If you’re heading to Clinton to find the trolls, here’s our guide for other things to do in Clinton, Iowa.
One of the trolls is located near the Sawmill Museum — a fitting location, given that these sculptures are built from reclaimed wood.
This stop is the easiest to find and a great starting point for your troll hunt in Clinton, Iowa. Be sure to also stop in at the Sawmill Museum to learn about the area’s lumber history. Three of Clintons trolls are relatives – bachelor brothers; Helmut, Marvin, and Warren, based on real life residents of Clinton, Iowa. We put together the family history of the three brothers, which you can read here.
🌳 Marvin in Clinton, Iowa
Location: Bickelhaupt Arboretum
Where to park: 340 S 14th St, Clinton, IA 52732
Another troll is tucked into a more natural setting at the arboretum.
Surrounded by trees and walking paths, this one feels like something you just stumbled upon in the woods — exactly how Dambo designs his installations.
🕵️ Warren in Clinton, Iowa
Location: Clinton Depot (you’ll have to wait to see this one 👀)
Address: 50-98 4th Ave S, Clinton, IA 52732
Yes, Warren will be located inside – at the old Clinton Depot. As of Saturday, May 2nd, the building is now open to the public during day time hours and is closed during the evening.
4th Object in Clinton, Iowa
According to Thomas Dambo during the Art Talk on April 30th, one more installation has already been built — but it’s hidden at an undisclosed location. Apparently, its a creature named Enchanted Branches, not a full troll.
The only way to find it?
Visit the three known trolls… and use clues from their necklaces to unlock the mystery.
A real-life treasure hunt just dropped in Clinton, Iowa.
🌎 Why These Trolls Are a Big Deal
Thomas Dambo’s trolls aren’t just art — they’re part of a global movement.
- Built from recycled materials
- Designed to connect people with nature
- Found in more than 20 countries
- Known for driving tourism and road trips
Communities across the country have seen huge increases in visitors after installing these trolls, and Iowa will soon be added to the worldwide Thomas Dambo Troll Map.
📍 Final Thoughts
This might be one of the most unique things to happen in Iowa travel in years.
Four giant trolls. Hidden locations. Real stories.
And a road trip that feels a little like a treasure hunt.
Thank you so much! I only knew about the troll at the Sawmill Museum. Now I have 2 more to search for. ❤️
Watch out, Clinton. You really don’t know what you are in for with these trolls. They are tourist magnets.
I almost gave up looking for them yesterday. But I was able to find two. Seen stuff I never seen before.
I’m excited to go on a troll quest next week! Hope I get to see the one in the depot! Thanks for providing these great stories.